As an extension of the idea of "Think Global, Act Local," one cannot help but notice that "Grow Local, Buy Local" is another popular theme throughout Western North Carolina. Self-sufficiency and healthier ways of living at the local level have captured the imaginations and organizational skills of many WNC newcomers and those born-and-raised here.

Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project (ASAP) offers an excellent Local Food Guide. Included are many useful and tasty listings, ranging from tailgate markets to restaurants. More>

One might add, "Walk Local, Dine Local," with increasing numbers of fine independent restaurants located in the many revitalized and pedestrian friendly downtowns located throughout WNC. More>

Greenlife Grocery,one of the newest health food stores to have cropped up in Asheville, has endeared itself to many who prefer fresh and organic food. More>

Earth Fare, another organic-oriented food market, has long been the favorite "healthy supermarket" among Ashevillians. More>

French Broad Food Co-op (FBFC), located on Highway 25 in the heart of downtown Asheville, remains the solidly local shopping choice of many a proud tree-hugger and community-minded advocate. More>

Asheville Independent Restaurant Association, known as AIR, is a leader in promoting quality food and dining for the independent minded, which could roughly include just about every independent spirit who enjoys living or visiting the Blue Ridge mountains. More>

There are the many retail and home-based competent caterers and bakers, as well as sweet hole-in-the-wall sandwich and coffee shops that deserve a bit and bite of your time, too. There are so many that deserve mention, and honorable mentions at that. More>

For the less fortunate,Manna Foodbank strives to end hunger in the mountains. A big job, but there are many who greatly support this noteworthy organization. More>

Organic Growers School is a major gardener's delight scheduled for Saturday, March 11, 2006. This one-day event, is held annually and hosted at Blue Ridge Community College, Flat Rock, NC. More>

Carolina Farm Stewardship Association inspires professionals, amateurs and consumers to learn more and appreciate the bounty grown locally in the mountains. Their mission is to create a sustainable food supply in the Carolinas.More>

Warren Wilson College has long been highly regarded as a hotbed of sustainable agricultural education and stewardship that features a 275-acre college farm with a halo of giving back to the community. More>

Asheville Agricultural, with three locations in North Carolina including Asheville, offers equipment for gardeners hooked on hydroponics and organics. More>

A wonderful readers' list of many more local food articles and healthy ideas is available online compliments of ASAP. More>

And tell a friend about this website, which showcases sustainable living. Email your greener home news and notes to: byron (a) thegreenerhome.com or Click Here>